By Niki Mytarea, food and wine writer/journalist
“Greek gastronomy is deeply rooted in tradition, offering a rich variety of products of exceptional quality, sourced from both land and sea. The quality, purity and flavour of these products have been appreciated for decades by international cuisine, which has incorporated Greek ingredients, transforming classic recipes and creating new culinary experiences. From cheeses, olive oil, and yogurt to aromatic herbs and wine, Greek products have consistently shown they can lend unique character to traditional international recipes, offering refined flavours and significant nutritional benefits.
Olive oil – the foundation of Greek cuisine and renowned for its high quality and nutritional value – can replace butter or other oils in recipes, adding a unique aroma and healthy fats.One of the most influential chefs of French cuisine, Alain Ducasse, who has incorporated Greek olive oil into his haute cuisine creations – using it in both salads and French sauces – has remarked: “Greek olive oil has balance, richness, and a pure flavour rarely found in other olive oils.” Nobu Matsuhisa, the world-famous Japanese chef and creator of the Nobu restaurant brand, uses Greek olive oil as a key ingredient in many of his recipes. He has even said that “Greek olive oil has a clean, fruity flavour that perfectly complements the umami of Japanese ingredients.”
The wide variety of traditional Greek cheeses can replace products of different national origins, giving recipes new depth. A look at the recipes of renowned and influential international chefs quickly reveals that Greek PDO feta holds a prominent place. Gordon Ramsay has called it a “game-changer” for salads and bruschettas, while Jamie Oliver has said that feta is one of the “must-have” cheeses in any kitchen. Nigella Lawson has included it in her books and TV appearances – in recipes mainly for pies, fresh salads, and roasted vegetables.
Greek avgotaraxo (bottarga), the “gold of the Greek lagoon,” has long been considered a premium gourmet product and is featured in top restaurants worldwide. With its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), it is recognised as a unique Greek product and is gaining ground in international markets. Three-Michelin-starred Italian chef Massimo Bottura uses bottarga in pasta dishes, blending its salty profile with lemon and olive oil.
The list of praise and preferences for Greek products is a long one. Greek yogurt is synonymous with quality in references by key players in international cuisine. Kalamata olives are used in many international cuisines, from Italian to Latin American fusion gastronomy. Herbs such as oregano, thyme and rosemary can intensify marinades, sauces and grilled meats. Chios mastic can add a new dimension to a range of sweet desserts. Honey consistently outshines sugar wherever it is used, while Greece’s unique wines and spirits are beginning to make a notable gastronomic impact in international cuisines.
Greece’s rich gastronomic heritage is not limited to local cuisine. The use of Greek products in international recipes reveals new flavour dimensions and offers healthier options. Whether it’s an Italian bruschetta with feta, a ceviche with olive oil, or an American cheesecake with Greek yogurt or myzithra, the presence of Greek ingredients can transform any dish into a culinary experience. In this way, Greek tradition stands out as an integral part of global gastronomy.”
The views expressed in this article are the author’s personal opinions and do not reflect the views or opinions of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food.